Learn how to avoid the headaches of traveling with your gear.  Since 9/11 occurred TSA and the airlines have changed their policies and restricted what equipment can be placed on an airplane.  Prior to leaving on your trip it is best to contact the the airline you're flying with or talk to your travel agent.  Remember to also check with any airlines you may be transferring to during your trip.  Even though your flight may have been booked through your original airline they may not know what restrictions are in place with the airlines you are transferring to.  Usually your gear will be able to fly for free, just like your luggage, but be sure that there are not any limits on the number of bags or weight limits of your bags that you can take without paying a service fee.

The best way to pack your dive bag, when you are traveling, is in a specially designed dive bag.  But before you pack your equipment be sure to take it in for a complete "Check up" to make sure everything is working properly.  This is especially important if you have a dive computer or are bringing your own regulator and octopus.  If you don't have a dive bag you can always use an extra-large suitcase or a sports bag similar to the type used for hockey or football.  If you plan to check your dive bag be sure to purchase TSA approved locks.  You can find sources for TSA locks on the Internet.  They allow any TSA inspector to open your dive bag for inspection and relock it.  Make sure that the locks you purchase will show a red ring if they have been opened by TSA so you will know if anyone has inspected your dive bag and you will be able to check it at the airport before you leave in case there are any problems.  

Since most divers rent their gear and wetsuits at their final destination the safest way to take  your gear is in a carry on bag that you have control over.  Don't bring pressurized tanks with you since they will not be allowed to be placed on the airplane.

Identify your checked luggage by adding a unique design on the side, labels or anything that will help you distinguish it from everyone else's/  Don't forget there will be many dive bags that look similar and you don't want your gear to end up in someone else's hands.

Packing your gear

Place your fins, sole to tip and wrap them in a towel before placing them in your bag.  You should pack your mask in a hard protective case buti if you don't have a case for your mask then check with your local dive shop where you should be able to purchase one.  If you are bringing your dive computer and regulator, wrap them in a towel or clothing to protect them from damage.

Underwater camera housings and lights should be given special attention.  Remove any O-rings that seal them since you will discover that it may not be possible to open them once you arrive at your destination.  Since cabin pressure changes during flight it can often create a vacuum in your housing or light and cause the pressure inside to be lower than the outside thus making it almost impossible to open.  Just remember to place the O-rings back in before you jump in the water.

Insure yourself and equipment

Check with your travel agent, if you are using one, but be sure to purchase travel insurance, equipment insurance and international health insurance in case you need medical attention.  It is also good to have DAN insurance in case you require the use of a hyperbaric chamber.

Be prepared

Keep you dive log, C-card and other important items dry by placing them in a large zip lock plastic bag and place them in your carry-on luggage.  Keep your passport secure and with you at all times.  Before leaving on your trip make a photocopy of all your identification, including credit cards, contact information for lost credit cards, and store it in a safe place in your carry-on luggage.  When you reach your destination, place your identification copies in the resort/hotel safe.

Purchase any needed batteries, film, sunscreen and sunglasses prior to leaving on your trip.  You will discover that they are less expensive at home.  Make sure, if you take any prescription medications, that you have them with you and that they are clearly labeled since it may be difficult to obtain them at  your destination.

Do your homework

When planning your trip you should find dive shops in the area you are visiting. Check-out scubawizard's dive listings for contact information.  A few long-distance telephone calls or e-mails will be cheaper than driving from shop to shop comparing prices and packages after you arrive.  You will also be able to learn other information like visibilty, water temperature and preferred diving locations.

Homeward bound

Prior to returning home, be sure to wash all your gear in fresh water and allow it to dry before packing.  Cleaning your scuba gear will prevent the growth of mold.  Remnants of ocean debris, when allowed to grow in a closed bag for a while, can end up smelling like an old gym locker so pack smart.